They say that carpets are a particularly vulnerable spot during the winter, as all the dust (mostly made of shed human skin, remember), dirt, food particles and other unpleasantness that have collected there since the spring clean suddenly become exposed to warm, wet and stifling conditions. You don’t want to be closed up in the house all winter with that!

The essential parts of an autumn clean

1) Vacuum thoroughly with a powerful and well-maintained vacuum cleaner.
One with a strong motor and good suction is vital to clearing out all the dust from a carpet before it becomes the dust mites’ winter larder. I have an older model Dyson that still does an excellent job. Be sure to move all the furniture and vacuum under that, not just tables and chairs but also bookcases, desks and other large items.

2) Dust your hard surfaces and give everything a good polish
Remember that all of the pollen that was helpfully donated by Mother Nature over the summer will still be hanging about. A bit of furniture polish and a soft cloth will keep it from staying for the winter. Also, people associate the smell of furniture polish with a clean room!

3) Overhaul the kitchen cupboard
This is the perfect opportunity to pull everything out of the kitchen cupboards and shelves. I also take the opportunity to clean all the dust, crumbs and tiny spills out. While you’re at it, make sure you don’t put anything back that is out of date. If that paprika is old enough to drive, it isn’t doing you any good!
Just doing these three things before winter really sets in will make your home much more pleasant for the months when you’ll be spending more time than ever inside!